26
Today is my birthday. I am 26.
I woke up to balloons on the ceiling, sunflowers on my dresser, and an inflatable flamingo on my floor. Her name is Fran, and she'll be accompanying me to my Bachelorette beach day tomorrow. Joel put them there yesterday with the best bacon card a girl could ask for before heading north for his Bachelor weekend because he is the most thoughtful person I know. I am taking none of it for granted as I walk around smiling from ear to ear today.
Here are my highlights from the past 6 months because August is my personal new year and I'm a shameless Leo (probably the same thing):
Got a promotion at work
Traveled to Aruba with Joel, my first time out of the country!
Started a zero-budget to increase my savings and lower my student loans
Paid off my first student loan in 4 months (thanks Dave Ramsey!)
Had my brother live with us which brought more happiness than challenges (& love that he's now living closer!)
Discovered a lot of family history as a wedding gift from one of my Grandma's (we're Irish!)
Helped Joel build our kitchen table*
Celebrated our upcoming marriage at 2 bridal showers with women who love me
Marriage counseling with our officiant initiated great conversations for us
*By helping, I mean watching sparks fly across the yard nervously as Joel trimmed the metal legs down.
It's important to recognize all the beautiful things that happen to you, for you, because of you. It's important to acknowledge our celebrations more than brood over what is not. Seeing my highlights gives the heavy stuff less power over me. It changes my perspective and ultimately becomes the dialogue to my life.
I try to see the world through rose-colored glasses. Most times that is what saves me. If you want to witness the ultimate example of faith in humanity, read The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes.
I'm off to celebrate being closer to my 30's than my 20's & my last month as a single lady with my best girlfriends, flamingos, and wigs.
Much to celebrate! Happy weekend, my friends. –Em
